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HARRISON, N.Y. -- John Stubenvoll knows Harrison and its history. That's why his new Halstead Avenue bar adapted a local theme and announced their grand opening on the town's 315th anniversary.
"The story of Harrison struck me," former real estate broker Stubenvoll said. "We have centered our theme around Harrisons rich history and feel that this is a great way to honor our town."
The Harrison Ale House opened its doors on Halstead Avenue this weekend under the direction of Harrison natives and partners Stubenvoll and Mark Valentino. The duo took over what used to be known as the "My Place" pub and transformed it into a tribute to their town and upbringing.
"We wanted to make this a downtown, vintage throwback establishment," Stubenvoll said. "We took what was already here and put a little spice into it."
The new alehouse is painted Harrison Husky colors of red and white and its currently vacant walls will soon display historic photos from throughout town history. With its featured $2 happy hour draft specials, Stubenvoll said the bar offers an atmosphere than can't be beaten in Harrison.
"We're all about cultivating relationships," Stubenvoll said. "It's going to be phenomenal."
Valentino and Stubenvoll grew up in Harrison and graduated from Harrison High School. Valentino said their local upbringings influenced their approach at their new bar.
"We want this to be the local hot spot in Harrison," Valentino said. "We're taking a local approach to everything and creating the atmosphere that we would want to be in."
The partners said their first bar isn't the last trick up their sleeves, either. More Stubenvoll and Valentino-style bars are on their way to the Westchester and surrounding areas, Stubenvoll said.
"This is a stepping stone," Stubenvoll said.
The Harrison Ale House is at 323 Halstead Avenue and serves food and drinks that Stubenvoll referred to as "comfort food."
"If you do the right thing for people, you'll be successful," Stubenvoll said. "That's become my philosophy with this."
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